Ronan swears in new police chief

After a monthslong search, Ronan has selected Robert Jacobson, a 20-year veteran of the police department in Raleigh, N.C., as the city’s new Chief of Police. Jacobson was sworn in at a brief ceremony during the Ronan City Council meeting Monday night.

Jacobson said for the past 10 years of his career he has focused on community outreach. Besides criminal law enforcement, the majority of his efforts were focused on “going out in the community, putting a face to law enforcement.” He worked to create one-on-one connections, “that personal touch of being able to talk to somebody and get to know them, listen to their concerns, whether it is a criminal matter or something they are working on or volunteering with, or anything else.”

During Monday’s ceremony Jacobson thanked retiring Chief Ken Weaver for the work he has done for the department.

“He has done a great job. I know where it was before he got here, and how far it’s come under his leadership.”

Weaver presented Jacobson with the chief’s cap piece, and a special challenge coin bearing the words “Respect, Professionalism, Dedication.”

“I challenge you to adhere to the code of ethics for law enforcement, and to take care of the department, the city and the citizens to the best of your ability,” Weaver said.

“Challenge accepted,” Jacobson replied.

“I’m very happy to be here and have this opportunity. I just want to do what I can to make things as good as I can for the people I’m going to be serving in the community and listen to their needs and concerns.”

Jacobson’s wife Kristen grew up in Bigfork, and the couple is happy to be joining her family, who still live in Bigfork and Woods Bay. Her family attended the swearing-in ceremony.

The Jacobsons have two sons, both serving in the U.S. armed forces. Their older son is in his fourth year in the Army, and the younger is currently in basic training for the Air Force.

“We love the lifestyle here, and the sense of community,” Jacobson said. “You get to know people here.”